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SALT LAKE CITY — Screeners for the Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration are working through the partial government shutdown.
“Travelers will see no difference in security. TSA officers, TSA canine handlers and their canines, TSA explosives experts, TSA inspectors — all frontline security personnel — will be working. They will not be paid during the furlough. However, historically they have been paid once the furlough ends,” a TSA spokesperson said Sunday.
Passengers moved smoothly through checkpoints at Salt Lake City International Airport Sunday. The airport saw a lighter crowd Sunday as travelers finish their trips ahead of Christmas.
Airport spokesperson Nancy Volmer said about 30,000 people passed through the airport Friday. Sunday, they expected about 20,000 passengers.
There were many happy reunions at baggage claim Sunday as families met each other to spend the holiday together. Marina Blakeman said she, her siblings, and parents have not celebrated Christmas together in 12 years. They were traveling to spend the holiday with her in Park City.
“I’m the one who’s always been away. They’re always together and I’m the one who’s like, far, so they’re coming over here. This is super special for me,” Blakeman said.
The airport could see its busiest day ever on December 26, as travelers begin to head home.
The TSA recommends travelers arrive at the airport two hours ahead of their flights.
